Forget about foreign conflict, instability and terrorism: cyber security attacks are quickly becoming the biggest threat to European democracies. Over the past ten years, we have witnessed a steady and worrisome increase in online criminal activity, with cases of theft, espionage and data extraction on the rise. What were once merely disruptive threats have now become destructive attacks. Dealing with cyber attacks will require more than legislative proposals and “mainstreaming cybersecurity”.

The last two years will not only be remembered for the end of roaming charges or Brexit. These have also been memorable years for the great amount of European legislation regarding personal Data’s protection and its transfer abroad. Can European citizens’ Data be considered safe under the current European legislation or does it require further development? How can this legislation be practically implemented?

Without a legal framework, states will be free to strengthen their technological capabilities and test the response of their adversaries all while knowing that their actions do not break international law.

Uber’s announcement to add self-driving cars to its usual taxi services in the United States is as unexpected as it is indicative of the automated future of the sharing economy. Governments should limit their efforts to regulate the rapidly-evolving sharing economy and instead focus on developing relevant skills.